Felony arrest in connection with the Idaho polecat fire

There’s no denying it’s HOT in the Treasure Valley right now. Despite the fact that we are surrounded by lakes, rivers and green forests, it is important to remember that as temperatures rise, we technically live in a desert. It’s a “dry heat” here in Idaho and we need to be careful not to contribute to fires that damage our wildlife and property.

Last week a fire broke out quite close to the city, dubbed the ‘polecat fire’ by authorities.

It burned 36 acres and threatened the safety of homes and properties here in the Treasure Valley area.

Authorities soon learned that there might be an investigation into the cause of the fire – and they were right. An arrest has been made since today.

The following statement was released this afternoon, Monday, June 24, by the Boise Police Department:

Boise Fire, Boise Police and the Bureau of Land Management responded to the Polecat Fire, a grass fire that burned 36 acres and threatened homes at the end of N. Collister Dr., at the Polecat Gulch Trailhead. The quick and coordinated response of first responders helped stop the fire before it caused injuries or destroyed nearby homes. After investigation it was determined that arson had occurred. Video footage from the area led police to identify a suspect. After further investigation, Bryan Grensing was arrested and booked into the Ada County Jail on the stated charges. The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are pending.

Officials have since stated that trails within the Polecat Reserve have now reopened, but are warning the public to avoid areas that have burned. Stay on the trails!

This summer, be extra careful if you use anything that could cause a fire outside. The risks aren’t worth it.